Reply to DJing/Production Software/Hardware Advice

I'm currently using Traktor Pro with the Vestax VCI 100 with DJTT's custom midi mapping. I use NI's Audio2DJ as a sound card to split output and cue sound. At the moment, I'm a bedroom DJ but soon looking to move onto live gigs.

However, I've just got a license for Ableton Suite 8 off a mate who runs a studio (had a spare license from Ableton for being a loyal customer or somethign!?). I've put it on my computer now, and it looks very interesting.

Just wondering how easy is it to DJ with Ableton Suite 8? I quite like the idea of being able to produce my own music and have it in a DJ set with 'normal' tunes ready to go at the press of a button.

Also, anyone got any thoughts on the VCI 100 as a controller for Ableton to use in the live arena for DJing and playing self produced stuff (once I get my head around it)? Not read good things on VCI/Ableton link so far. I have actually considered using the VCI 100 for crossfader, jogging, playing, effects etc and then buying the Novation Launchpad to use with it to play the different clips, but looking for advice on direction really.

PS - APC40 is way out of my budget at the moment before the suggestions come flooding in!